2023 EWU LATINO & CHICANO GRADUATION

2nd Annual Latino and Chicano Ceremony

The Chicana/o/x Studies program of Eastern Washington University celebrated its 2^nd annual Latino and Chicano Graduation Ceremony on June 16^th and we had over 80 students walk across the stage with over 320 of their family and friends attending!

The Latino and Chicano graduation was first celebrated in June of 2021, an alternative commencement to celebrate the work of EWU Latino and Chicano students from marginalized communities – an opportunity to honor shared perseverance in the face of unique obstacles. 80% of the graduates fell under the category of first-generation college students – undergraduates whose parents have not completed a 4-year degree at a college or university in the United States during their formative years.

Celebrating with Friends and Families!

The celebration was held at the PUB NCR and thanks to all of our volunteers, we were able to have a beautiful set up and celebration. As families, friends, and faculty filled the room, they were welcomed with suave harmonies and romping rhythms played by EWU’s very own Mariachi Las Águilas.

Student Receive Their Stoles!

As the graduates lined up to receive their EWU Latino/Chicano stoles, a small detail shifted the energy in the room. Not only were the students’ names announced, but also their parent’s place of origin. Names of the Mexican States and Latin American countries echoed throughout the room as families cheered one by one, feeling their sense of pride and honor through their student’s achievements.

Celebration Time!

Dinner, pictures, families hugging one another, and mariachi music followed the ceremony. It was a powerful scene to see many students from different backgrounds who could connect over the obstacles and barriers their parents faced to guarantee education.

This years ceremony was a huge success and we look forward to celebrating with next years graduating class!

2023 Celebration Photos